Five Shropshire Royal Mail workers sacked after inquiry

Bosses confirmed there were five cases linked to either the Telford or Shrewsbury postcode areas in which employees were interviewed under caution and all of the workers interviewed in connection with the alleged crimes lost their jobs.

It was unclear today if the cases were referred to police, but Royal Mail chiefs said prosecutions were usually pursued.

The details emerged after a Freedom of Information request by the Shropshire Star.

Royal Mail bosses said they would not reveal any further details of the cases.

Information rights officer Kate Fearn said: "Within the TF and SY postcode areas there were five cases where a Royal Mail employee was interviewed under caution for fraud or theft during 2011/12 and 2012/13.

"The five interviewed were investigated and, as a result of the outcome of these investigations, none of them continue to work for Royal Mail."

She added: "Royal Mail Group operates a zero tolerance approach to dishonesty and, where there is evidence, we seek to ensure anyone stealing mail is robustly dealt with and brought before the courts.

"While the overwhelming majority of all letters posted arrive safely at the correct destination, we remain very vigilant to any risk to the operation, including any threat from criminals outside Royal Mail who target postmen and women to steal mail they are carrying.

"It remains the case that the huge majority are scrupulously honest and take great care over the mail entrusted to them."

Last October, a Telford postman who stashed away more than 1,700 letters and parcels he should have delivered was ordered to carry out 120 hours' community service.

Sean Steven While, 23, admitted stealing a miniature bottle of Baileys, two Xbox games, six DVDs and a Star Wars money box between June 2010 and May 2012.

While, of Burtondale, Brookside, Telford, further admitted intentionally delaying 1,179 addressed letters and parcels.